The New England Patriots and star cornerback Christian Gonzalez are still ‘far apart’ on contract talks, and the latest NFL rumors may have revealed bad news. While NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said the Patriots are expected to make Gonzalez the highest-paid cornerback, they could hold off until next year. Originally selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, the former Oregon product finished the 2025 season with 69 tackles (54 solo), 10 pass deflections, and allowed only two touchdowns in 14 games. Despite missing the beginning of the season last year, the cornerback still made an impact while almost winning a Super Bowl, but here’s what Rapoport had to say:
“The hope is at some point to get a new deal, but as of right now it’s unclear whether or not that will actually happen,” Rapoport said. “Wouldn’t be surprised, for instance, if he ended up waiting until next year.”
It’s not the news Patriots fans want to hear. Seattle Seahawks star cornerback Devon Witherspoon also remains without a new deal. New England will probably want to extend the former first-rounder before Seattle re-signs Witherspoon.
NFL Rumors
August 8, 2024; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez (0) warms up before a game against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
What’s Next?
While both cornerbacks want to be the highest-paid, it appears it won’t happen anytime soon. Meanwhile, if one cornerback resets the market while the other remains unsigned, panic could spark. In July, it was reported that the Seahawks’ negotiations with their star were much further than the Patriots’. If this remains true, what is taking the Patriots this long to agree to a new deal?
Panic Incoming
This past week, the Patriots cornerback has been linked to several teams in trade rumors, including the Dallas Cowboys. These aren’t credible sources, but it’s fair to wonder what would happen if New England decides to skip over extending Gonzalez until next year. The former 2023 draft selection won’t be an unrestricted free agent next year after the Patriots agreed to pick up his fifth-year option. However, don’t be surprised if the cornerback becomes disgruntled next offseason and could request a trade.
For the rest of this article, let’s explore three potential dream teams that could acquire the cornerback. There’s a saying: Never say never. (Click the next pages for the best landing spots for the former first-rounder):